FLOWCHARTS TO HELP LOCATE MACOMB SERVICES FHOR HOMELESS VETERANS/THOSE AT RISK OF HOMELESSNESS

Flow Charts to help locate Macomb services for homeless veterans and those at risk of homelessness to locate prevention, temporary or permanent housing is posted at: http://mvac.macombgov.org/mvac-resources

HOMELESSNESS

﻿Outreach, case management, financial assistance and assistance in obtaining VA and other benefits (“Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program”) is available to low-income qualifying veterans and their families who are in or transitioning to permanent housing. Eligibility requirements:

Be a veteran

A veteran is defined as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable . Must meet VA eligibility requirements as described in www.va.gov/healthbenefits/resources/epublications.asp.

Family situation

Be a Veteran who is a single person or a family in which the head of household, or the spouse of the head of household, is a Veteran

Very low-income

50% area median income

Living situation

Currently homeless

Scheduled to become resident of permanent housing within 90 days pending the location or development of suitable permanent housing or

Currently homeless, exited permanent housing within the previous 90 days in order to seek housing more responsive to needs and preferences

Imminently at-risk of becoming homeless

(For Community Housing Network only - a veteran who is “couch surfing” is considered to be homeless.)

The qualifications for the SSVF Rapid Re-housing resource offered by Community Housing Network is based on income under 50% AMI and their prevention services are based on income under 30% AMI. CHN considers a veteran who is “couch surfing” to be homeless.

Community Housing Network services do not provide long-term case management. However, if the veteran can get into the VA HUDVASH program, VA HUDVASH will provide long-term case management. For more information on the VA HUDVASH program, contact the HUD Director of Homeless Programs, (313) 576-1000 ext. 64249.

Macomb, Oakland, Jackson, Saginaw, Lapeer and Genesee Counties (Serves veteran families who live in Macomb and plan to move to one of the other counties listed above or if they live in any of the counties above and who plan to move to Macomb County.)

The Case Manager for Macomb is moble and will meet the veteran at the location convenient for the veteran.

Macomb County (This program can serve veteran families who live in Macomb but plan to move to any other county in Michigan or who live in any other county in Michigan and plan to move to Macomb County.)

Macomb, Oakland and Wayne Counties
(Serves veteran families who live in Macomb and plan to move to one of the other
counties listed above or they live in any of the counties above and plan to move to Macomb
County.) The Case Manager for Macomb is mobile and will meet the
veteran at a location convenient for the veteran.

Macomb, Oakland, Livingston, Shiawassee, Washtenaw, Genesee
(Serves veteran families who live in Macomb and plan to move to one of the
other counties listed above or they live in any of the counties above and plan to
move to Macomb County.)

The Case Manager for Macomb is mobile and will meet the veteran at a location
convenient for the veteran.

Personalized one-on-one help in matching the housing needs of veterans (of any war eras) and their dependents. Housing options include: help in qualifying for a mortgage, the purchase of a home at a discount, a lease-to-own arrangement, or locating rental property. Available from Veterans Constructing Communities Foundation, (586) 469-8900. The application for assistance may be completed online at: http://www.vcc.foundation/

A free week of stay at a bed and breakfast for War on Terror military personnel who have endured physical and/or mental wounds from serving this country and their most immediate family (up to eight persons) to relax, recoup, and reenergize from the stress of their current rehab and duties. The house is located on Orchard Lake near Rogers City, Michigan. For more information, call Terry at (734) 812-1500. www.blumslanding.org

Mortgage-free homes for 1 - 3 years and supportive services to veterans and military families. Go to www.homesonthehomefront.org and complete the program application. The applications are reviewed and a recipient is selected. The selected family resides in the home for 1 - 3 years and participates in a customized transition plan, including financial counseling and savings planning. Available from Homes on the Homefront, (210) 659-7756 (Texas).

﻿Free smoke alarm inspection and installation for veteransthat don’t have smoke alarms, those that have smoke alarms that no longer work properly and for those that have smoke alarms that are over 10 years old. Will install one smoke alarm for each floor of home and will provide smoke alarms for the hearing and visually impaired on a case-by-case basis. Available from the American Red Cross at (313) 494-3432 to schedule an appointment.

Free lawn care for the families of currently deployed military personnel, and post 9/11 disabled veterans with a service-connected disability. To register, go the following website: www.projectevergreen.org, on the top, click on “GreenCare and Snowcare,” then click on “Contact Us for Assistance or Questions.”

Free snow removal for the families of currently deployed military personnel, and post 9/11 disabled veterans with a service-connected disability. To register, go the following website: www.projectevergreen.org, on the top, click on “GreenCare and Snowcare,” then click on “Contact Us for Assistance or Questions.”

﻿Exemption from property taxes for a disabled veteran or their surviving unmarried spouse is available for residents of Michigan who meet one of the following criteria:

Have been determined by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service and entitled to veteran’s benefits at the 100% rate;

Have a certificate from the U.S. Veterans Administration or its successors, certifying that he or she is receiving or has received pecuniary assistance due to disability for speciality adapted housing;

Has been rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as individually unemployable.

Contact the Assessing Department of your local City or Township for the application deadline.

EMPLOYMENT

﻿Registration on the Michigan Talent Bank and contact with a local Veteran Employment Specialist is available in Michigan Works! Service Centers. Registering on the Michigan Talent Bank makes your résumé available to thousands of employers statewide. The Macomb County Michigan Works! Service Centers and contact information:

Internet training for disabled American veterans remotely from home for jobs in the tech industry. Classes are four months long and conducted via the internet so the veteran can train at home and then work from home. Available from Veterans Workshop, (888) 398-7481. https://vetsworkshop.org/

A free monthly meeting for veterans interested in starting or improving their business, including a forum for the exchange of ideas, networking and promotion, of the business, and information to help a veteran start a business more successfully. Available from Veterans in Business (Bloomfield Township). Pre-registration is required. Program: Wednesdays: 11:30 - 11:45: networking and lunch; 11:45 - 1:30 P.M. meeting and guest presentation. For more information, call Randy Whitmore at (248) 930-6420 or go to: veteransinbusiness@earthlink.net.

PARENTING

﻿A ten-week parent education program for military families with children ages 1 - 6 who have or are currently deployed is available from the Judson Center. For more information, contact Karen Smith, (734) 936-2627 or strongfamilies@umich.edu (Up to $90.00 offered for course completion and evaluation.)

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY

Support group and recreational activities for brain injury survivors, family members, friends and caregivers available in Macomb County and special event locations in Oakland and Wayne Counties. Available from Macomb Chapter Brain Injury Association of Michigan, call Marty Zobrovitz, (586) 774-0135, or e-mail:biamimacomb@aol.com

Freeone-on-one financial coaching for transitioning veterans (independent of discharge status)including help in identifying financial goals, creating a plan, and tracking process to achieve those goals. Available from Michigan Works!. For more information, contact Gabriella Barthlow, (586) 783-1398.

Money management workshops help individuals/families understand the importance of creating a spending plan, saving for emergencies and paying down debt. Participants set personal and financial goals, learn the process of buying and maintaining a home, understand credit reports, rebuild credit, and become a confident investor. To register, call: (586) 469-7614 or http://msue.macombgov.org/sites/default/files/content/pdfs/msue/MMbrochure2016.pdf

Money management including a confidential analysis of the size and nature of debt, creation of a plan to reduce that debt, advocacy with creditors, negotiation of payment rates and terms, processes of payments to creditors, and education on managing money. Available from: Green Path Solutions with offices in Eastpointe and Utica, (800) 994-5537 or www.greenpath.com

Free confidential interview to analyze a family’s personal situation. If the family is unable to balance their budget, they may enroll in the debt management program. The debt management program will negotiate reduced payments with most of their creditors. The debt management fee is based on the amount of the debt, with the maximum charge being $50.00 per month. Available from: Consumer Credit Counseling Service, (586) 254-6011 (Utica) or (800) 547-5005 (Toll free).

A free two-hour class for senior citizens on the following topics: household finances, protecting yourself from financial exploitation, understanding credit, retirement and estate planning at the Macomb County Family Resource Center, 196 North Rose, Mt. Clemens, MI 48043. For more information or a schedule of classes, call MSU Extension at (586) 469-5912.

Assistance in locating home care for a veteran and/or their spouse, including direct care for activities of daily living, coordination of other care such as skilled care, assistance with applying for veteran Aids and Attendance, Veteran’s Improved Pension is available from the Vets Constructing Communities Foundation, (313) 737-5428.

VA’s comprehensive VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) gives enrolled Veterans and CHAMPVA beneficiaries the opportunity to purchase dental insurance through Delta Dental and MetLife at a reduced cost. Participation is voluntary. Purchasing a dental plan does not affect the veterans’ eligibility for VA dental services and treatment. Covered services include diagnostic, preventative, surgical, emergency and endodontic/restorative treatment. Delta Dental and MetLife are offering multiple plans. Each participant pays the fixed monthly premiums for coverage and any co-payments required, depending on the type of plan selected. Dependents of Veterans, except those eligible under CHAMPVA, are not authorized to participate in VADIP. Those individuals may be eligible for separate dental insurance coverage offered by these carriers. For more information about VADIP, go to: https://www.va.gov/healthBenefits/vadip/

﻿A hotline to respond to questions from female veterans, their families and caregiversabout the many VA services and resources available to women veterans is available from the Department of Veterans Affairs, (855) VA-WOMEN.

﻿Guidance and help to navigate government benefits available to military personnel and their families. Available from the Wounded Warrior Project. For more information, go to:http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

﻿A guide detailing monetary, health care and employment services and support benefits, and outlines the interaction between government benefits and employment or self-employment for veterans with disabilities.The goal is to provide disabled veterans and their families enough information to understand how work income can affect benefits. It provides tools so they can stay financially secure while remaining eligible for supports and services, and assists in transitioning away from supports when appropriate, in a planned process. For more information or to download a copy, go to:vets.syr.edu/pdfs/benefits-guidebook.pdfhttps://ivmf.syracuse.edu/article/navigating-government-benefits-and-employment/

﻿24 hour telephone consultation for all active duty, Guard and Reserve regardless of activation status and their families for referrals to such needs as child care, spousal employment, income tax preparation, car repair, plumbing, money management, counseling, or relocation. Available from Military One Source, (800) 342-9647 or www.militaryonesource.com. (Services available in 140 languages).

Peer support and outreach from trained veterans for Michigan veterans of "Operation Enduring Freedom" and "Operation Iraqi Freedom" (OEF/OIF) is available from the Buddy-to-Buddy Program helping returning OEF/OIF veterans deal with the many challenges they may face when readjusting to civilian life. 4Services are voluntary, confidential and free. Callers will be matched with a veteran trained to help them find resources for mental heath, substance abuse, financial benefits, education, legal or job issues. Contact (888) 82-BUDDY (822-8339) or go to www.buddytobuddy.org.

Free assistance and information in preparing, developing, and obtaining sufficient evidence to support claims for veterans’ benefits (compensation, pensions, loans, and medical benefits) and to assist claimants appealing to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals is available from the American Red Cross, Board of Veterans’ Appeals, (202) 565-4119, Washington, DC.

Expedited processing of disability claims from Social Security (benefits available through Social Security are different than those from the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application) for military service members who become disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs is available from the Social Security Administration, (800) 772-1213 or visit: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors

﻿Information on community caregiver support resources and referrals for caregivers of veterans is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. and Saturday from 10:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Available from the National Caregiver Support Line (855) 260-3274 or visit their website athttp://www.caregiver.va.gov

﻿180 days of transition health benefits are available for all returning soldiers/ families. Members of the military enrolled in PRIME or Prime Remote during the deployment will need to re-enroll again for the Transitional Assistance period. For more information, contact the Tricare North Region Contractor, or go to the website: http://www.healthnetfederalservcies.comor by phone (877) 877-TRICARE (877-874-2273).

A full range of health care for veterans, to include prescription, surgery, counseling and rehabilitation. Soldiers may take advantage of this benefit for a two year period following deployment for illness potentially related to service in combat theater. To receive care, veterans must first enroll by submitting a VA Form 10-10EZ. For information about Veteran Administration services, benefits, and facility locations visit www.va.gov or call (800) 827-1000.

Voluntary premium-based health care coverage plan may be available to veterans who are members of the Selected Guard and Reserve. For more information, call (877) TRICARE (877-874-2273)or http://www.tricare.mil

PHYSICAL/MENTAL HEALTH

﻿Telephone reassurance and support is available from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK (8255) Press one for the Veteran’s line or visit their website athttp://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

﻿Twelve (12) free counseling sessions (face-to-face, short-term focused telephone consultations or online consultations) for such issues as coping with deployment and return, adjusting to a new location, marital concerns, parenting and family matters, grief and loss, combat stress, etc. Available from http://www.militaryonesource.comor (800) 342-9647. (Services available in 140 languages).

Readjustment counseling to all veterans who have served in combat zones and their family members is provided at no cost to veterans or their families. To receive care, family and veterans need a copy of DD214 paperwork. Available from the Macomb Vet Center, Clinton Township, (586) 412-0107.

Free mental health services to returning military personnel and their families and to parents, siblings, and unmarried partners who are not entitled to receive mental health benefits through the military. Services include: counseling to individuals, couples and families, and children and adolescents, treatment for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, sexual health and intimacy concerns, and loss and grieving.) The military person visits the Give An Hour web site and clicks on "For Visitors" to get information on what to expect and how to choose a provider. She clicks on "Provider Search" to find someone offering individual counseling services near her former active-duty station. The military person obtains the counselor’s contact information from the list of providers and calls him to set up an appointment. After the appointment, the military person volunteers an hour of their time at a community site listed on the GAH website. Available from Give an Hour : www.giveanhour.org

Evidence-based treatments for PTSD (Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy) is available at all VA Medical Centers. For a list of VA Medical Center, go to: https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp

Free counseling for combat veterans with PTSD is available from the Macomb Vet Center, Clinton Township, (586) 412-0107.

﻿Education, advocacy, research opportunities, support and support groups to brain injury survivors their families, and the people who serve them is available from The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI), (810) 229-5880 or (800) 444- 6443. Website: http://www.biami.org/index.htm

Information on traumatic brain injury in active duty military and veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) is available at the following website: www.dvbic.org

A six-month weekday homeless service center open to both male and female veterans. This program also offers the assistance of the Veteran’s Case Manager and the physical and mental health services of the VA Medical Hospitals. Available in Lansing only. For more information, call (517) 489-5285 ext. 103 or visit: www.voami.org/Veterans-Programs

﻿A free newly-built or renovated specially-adapted house for disabled veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistanis available from Homes for Our Troops. For more information, call Dan Higgins (248) 504-9843. Website: www.homesforourtroops.org

﻿A mortgage-free home in order to assist transition to civilian life is available to qualified combat-wounded veterans.After a period of stewardship, the home is then deeded to the combat-wounded veterans. Homes are available in multiple locations nationwide. Available from Military Warriors Support Foundation, (210) 615-8973 or visit:http://www.militarywarriors.org/contact

Specially-adapted homes built for severely wounded (minimum 30% permanently disabled) military heroesinjured in theater during the Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom is available from Homes for Heros, (888) 786-9531 Apply online athttp://www.helpingahero.orgClick the “Home Application" link on the right.

﻿Retirement living, with access to continuing health care, for military officers (and their spouses) who served honorably(no qualified widow or widower is ever turnedaway due to inability to pay.) is available at Air Force Village 1 in San Antonio, Texas,(800) 724-5771. www.airforcevillages.com

FINANCIAL

﻿Emergency financial assistance to soldiers and their immediate family members is available by contacting your Family Assistance Center or Family Readiness Support Assistant. For more information about the Michigan National Guard Family Fund and other financial assistance programs, visit http://fp.minationalguard.com/family-fund/ or call (517) 481-4891 for information about the application process.

Temporary Financial Assistance is available to keep minor children of deceased or disabled veterans at home rather than in institutions and who are not covered by subsequent state and federal programs for the needy. Available from AMVETS through a local post which requests the cash assistance to help maintain the basic needs of veterans’ children (shelter, food, utilities and health expenses) when parents are unable. Membership in the American Veterans is not required. See the website for the specific requirements: http://www.legion.org/financialassistance For a list of your local AMVET post, go to: http://www.legion.org/posts

Temporary assistance granted for emergencies or hardships for eligible wartime veterans, and their families, residing in Michigan is available to provide the basic necessities of life in our society without causing a hardship. (Assistance is not available for long-term problems or chronic financial difficulties). Available from the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund with applications available at the Macomb County Department of Veterans Services, (586) 469-5315.

Emergency assistance and morale to troops (all branches of the armed forces, including active duty, Guard and Reserve), and to the families they leave behind and to wounded warriors when they return home is available from Operation Homefront. Command officials, chaplains, family support centers and other military non-profits refer the cases. The rest of our cases come through their online community and word-of-mouth. http://www.operationhomefront.net/index.asp

Grants to qualifying families of military members in either the Michigan National Guard or Reserves who were called to active duty as a result of the national response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks is available from the Military Family Relief Fund,. For more information, call (866) 271-4404 or download the application form: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/Application Form 128132 7.pdf

Emergency financial aid to disabled American veterans from the global War on Terror (utility bills, car payments, new car deposits, repair costs, and gasoline, mortgage and rent payments, groceries, home repairs, air travel, and lodging, school supplies and clothing, medical bills and co-payments, loans) is available from the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes, (914) 432-5400 or apply online at: https://saluteheroes.org/get-help/emergency-financial-aid/

﻿Improved Pension for Veterans and surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of another person to assist in eating, bathing, dressing, undressing, medication dosing, or taking care of the needs of nature to receive additional monetary benefits. It also includes individuals who are blind or a patient in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity. Assisted care in an Assisted Living facility also qualifies. This is a "Pension Benefit" and IS NOT dependent upon service-related injuries for compensation. Aid and Attendance can help pay for care in the home, Nursing Home or Assisted Living facility. A veteran is eligible for up to $1,738 per month, while a surviving spouse is eligible for up to $1,130 per month. A veteran with a spouse is eligible for up to $2,085 per month and a veteran with a sick spouse is eligible for up to $1,380 per month. For more information, go to: http://www.veteranaid.org/index.php To apply, go to http://www.veteranaid.org/apply.php

﻿Gift certificates purchased by friends, families or groups which allow services members to purchase items at PX and BX facilities around the world. Certificates can be purchased from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service and addressed to a specific service member. Or certificates can be purchased and addressed to "any service member" and sent to the Red Cross for distribution. To purchase a gift certificate, log on to www.aafes.comor call (877) 770-4438. The American Red Cross distributes the gift certificates through its Armed Forces Emergency Services staff members who are deployed.

﻿Personal Financial Counselingto help military individuals and families with managing finances, resolve financial problems and reach long-term goals such as getting an education, buying a home and planning for retirement. Available from Military One Source, (800) 342-9647 or www.militaryonesource.mil

TRANSPORTATION

﻿Free shuttle transportation for a veteran with a confirmed morning appointment at the John Dingel VA Medical Center in Detroit. Pick up locations are in Shelby Township, Clinton Township, and Roseville. The veteran must be ambulatory - no wheelchairs or oxygen - and be able to walk without assistance. To be placed on the pick-up schedule, call no less than 2 days in advance of the appointment to Macomb Veterans Services, (586) 469-5315.

﻿Air transportation for medical and other compassionate purposes to wounded warriors, veterans, and their families (priority is for on the Veterans of Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots. Any veteran or active duty military person undergoing continuing medical care is eligible for transportation between the medical facility and from his/her home. A medical release from a physician may be required for travel. Passengers (family or a very close personal friend of the veteran) are transported to and from the medical facility for the benefit of the service member/veteran, not the passengers. Passenger eligibility requires the service member/veteran to be undergoing continuing medical care, either hospitalized or as an outpatient. Available from Veteran’s Airlift Command (VAC), http://www.veteransairlift.org or call the VAC offices at 952-582-2911 to start the process.

﻿EMPLOYMENT

﻿Identification of employment opportunities that match the veteran’s qualifications and career interests is available by calling the Veterans’ Hotline, (800) 455-5228 or visit their website at http://www.mitalent.org/Veteran

A website that provides for National Guard, Reserve, retired and transitioning active-duty military members connect to career and training opportunities in the construction industry. This program employs several Regional Directors and volunteers who take an active role in connecting veterans to career and training opportunities. Available from Helmets to Hardhats,http://www.helmetstohardhats.org

A job listing and resume posting, advice and interview tips website for military veterans is available at www.careerbuilder.com. Employers who seek to hire veterans may post their job opportunities for free. For more information, contact Operation Hero for Hire, at https://www.hireheroesusa.org/

Comprehensive employment and training program designed to address employment barriers. A continuum of supportive services will be provided and coordinated, giving homeless veterans the ability to participate in job skills training programs while meeting their basic needs. Available from the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program of Volunteers of America with services provided in Lansing only. For more information, call (517) 484-4414 ext. 103 or visit their website: http://www.voami.org/Services/Veterans-Programs

Low interest loans to veterans and members of the military community wanting to establish or expand a small business which may be used for most business purposes, including start-up, expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, inventory or business-occupied real-estate purchases. Available from U.S. Small Business Administration - Patriot Express Loans, Michigan District office: (313) 226-6075 or visit: https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/pa/pittsburgh/resources/sba-business-loan
-information-veterans

A free semester of classes at Western Michigan University for service members following their discharge or leave from active duty. A veteran who is eligible for VA benefits should apply within six months of his/her deployment and must begin taking classes within the six month period. Available from Western Michigan University - Veteran’s Department, (269) 387-6000 or visit their website at https://wmich.edu/military

Undergraduate tuition grant of up to $2,800 for the eligible children (older than 16 and less than 26 years old) of certain deceased military personnel or totally and permanently disabled veterans is available from the Michigan Higher Education Assistance Authority, (517) 373-3394. Application forms can be downloaded at http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mistudentaid/CVTGFactSheet2016-17_532792_7.pdf and click on "Forms & Documents".

Payments for post-secondary education in Michigan for children of a disabled or deceased veteran or missing in action is available from the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund - Tuition Grant program. Information and application forms are available at the Macomb Veteran’s Affairs office Macomb County Veteran’s Services, (586) 469- 5315. http://vets.macombgov.org/Vets-Home or visit: http://www.va.gov

Scholarships to Macomb Community College (MCC) for U.S. Armed Forces veterans from the Iraq or Afghanistan wars, their spouses, and children is available from the James and Dorothy Stanton Foundation. For more information, call the MCC Financial Aid office, (586) 445-7228 or visit their websits at:

﻿A list of veteran-friendly schools committed to providing on-campus, veteran-centric services to better support their academic and transitional needs. Available from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency website: https://www.michiganveterans.com/categories/Education

PEER SUPPORT

﻿Peer support and outreach from trained veterans for Michigan veterans of "Operation Enduring Freedom" and "Operation Iraqi Freedom" (OEF/OIF) is available from the Buddy-to-Buddy Program helping returning OEF/OIF veterans deal with the many challenges they may face when readjusting to civilian life. Services are voluntary, confidential and free. Callers will be matched with a veteran trained to help them find resources for mental heath, substance abuse, financial benefits, education, legal or job issues. Contact (888) 82-BUDDY or go to http://www.buddytobuddy.org.

Building connections between wounded warriors/establishing a network of peers to provide assistance, friendship, and inspiration is available from the Wounded Warrior Project, wwpservice@woundedwarriorproject.org

RECREATION / LEASURE

﻿Community Center for veterans and their families who have served in all branches and wars. Activities include connection with job opportunities, free events and services, peer mentors, educational classes. Proof of military status required: valid DD-214, VA Card, Copy of Active Duty Orders, or Military ID. For family members: a photo ID that shows the same last name. Should the last name be different, bring a Birth or Marriage Certificate that shows the relationship to the Veteran. Available from Haven Place in New Haven, MI. For more information, call (586) 484-8540. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/724296194283800/

Sports teams for wounded veterans with no minimum qualification times, nor specific level of injury or maximum number of participants. All veterans with disabilities or injuries are invited to participate as a member of the team to the extent that they feel comfortable. For more information, contact Bryan Belcher, bryanbelcher85@gmail.com or (910) 639-6436.

Hunting, fishing, camping trips and other outdoor recreational activities for disabled soldiers is available from Operation Injured Soldier, (248) 437-1144.

A hockey program designed for disabled veterans is available from Michigan Warriors Hockey. Eligible veterans must have or apply for a disability rating from the VA to be eligible. Practices are held in Royal Oak. In the fall of 2016, three other practice sites will be added. Teams are assigned by region: either Ann Arbor or Metro Detroit. Games are played all over the region. Participation in charitable activities is also available. To register to join, go to www.miwarriors.com

Scuba diving for injured servicemen and women at fort Campbell in Kentucky. Available from Underwater Warriors. For more information, call (931) 431-5700.

A week of free lodging at a vacation home donated by a homeowner is available to Purple Heart Medal recipients from the Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns is available from Vacations for Veterans, (800) 831 8803 or visit: www.vacationsforveterans.org

DEATH BENEFITS

﻿Burial in a VA national cemetery is available for eligible veterans, their spouses and dependents at no cost to the family and includes the grave site, grave liner, opening and closing of the grave, a headstone or marker, and perpetual care as part of a national shrine. For veterans, benefits also include a burial flag (with case for active duty) and military funeral honors. Family members and other loved ones of deceased veterans may request Presidential Memorial Certificates. The National cemeteries in Michigan accepting internments:

Reimbursement of foundation costs to put a Veterans Administration marker on the graves of honorably discharged, war-time veterans is available from the Wayne County Soldiers and Sailors Relief Service Group, (313) 224-8163. For more information, visit: http://www.michigan.gov/dmva

﻿Shielding a mourning family of a fallen military member and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors (accomplished through strictly legal and non-violent means). Available from Patriot Guard Riders http://www.patriotguard.orgThe Michigan State Captain contact is Sam Cottle, hgpreacherman@gmail.com

﻿Free online tax preparation and filing services for the military. The service allows you to complete and electronically file your federal and up to three state tax returns or filings. The Military OneSource Tax Consultants will be available 7 days a week 0700-2300. You must access the link through the Military OneSource homepage which lists eligibility.

SUPPORT GROUP

﻿Afree eight-week resiliency group for military/veteran spouses or partners focuses on building social support and positive relationships, learning new approaches to self-care, connecting to resources, and promoting resiliency and positive coping. A resiliency program for children and teens is also offered for participating families. The group is open to spouses or partners of post - 9/11 National Guard, Reserve, or Active Duty service members or Veterans. Up to $140 is available for completing evaluations of the program. Free meal and child care, children’s program, and teen program are also offered. Groups are currently forming throughout southern Michigan. For more information, contact Ms. Jodi Goodman at (734) 998-5849 or e-mailhomefrontstrong@umich.edu.

﻿Financial assistance for wounded, ill, and injured Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) honorably discharged veterans with a VA disability rating and who are experiencing an unexpected financial setback. Money is available for mortgage, rent, auto loan, auto insurance, electric, natural gas, heating petroleum. All past due bills must be at least 30 days in arrears to qualify. Only one emergency financial request per household and one time only. To apply, download the Emergency Financial Assistance Application from:www.penfedfoundation.organd email to:militaryheroes@penfed.org